Radiological survey techniques for decontamination and dismantlement applications

Conference · Mon Dec 01 04:00:00 EST 1997

OSTI ID:561196

Ruesink, G P; Stempfley, D H; Pettit, P J; Warner, R D

The Department of Energy`s Fernald Environmental Management Project (FEMP) is engaged in an aggressive Program to remove all above ground structures as part of the Fernald sites final remediation remedy. Through the complete removal of major facilities such as Plant 7, Plant 4, and Plant 1, the FEMP has developed radiological survey approaches that are effective for the different phases of the Decontamination and Dismantlement (D&D) process. Some of the most pressing challenges facing the FEMP are implementing effective, low cost methods for the D&D of former process buildings while minimizing environmental effects. One of the key components to ensure minimal impact on the environment is the collection of radiological contamination information during the D&D process to facilitate the decision making process. Prior to the final demolition of any structure, radiological surveys of floors, walls, and ceilings must take place. These surveys must demonstrate that contamination levels am below 5000 dpm removable beta/gamma for non-porous surfaces and below 1000 dpm removable-beta/gamma for all porous surfaces. Technique which can perform these activities in a safe, effective, and cost efficient manner are greatly desired. The FEMP has investigated new approaches to address this need. These techniques include sampling approaches using standard baseline methodology as well as innovative approaches to accelerate final radiological clearance processes. To further improve upon this process, the FEMP has investigated several new technologies through the Fernald Plant 1 Large Scale Technology Demonstration Project. One of the most promising of these new technologies, Laser Induced Fluorescence, may significantly improve the radiological clearance survey process. This paper will present real world experiences in applying radiological control limits to D&D projects as well as relate potential productivity and cost improvements with the implementation of new technologies.

• Research Organization: Fluor Daniel Fernald, Inc., Cincinnati, OH (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
• DOE Contract Number: AC24-92OR21972
• OSTI ID: 561196
• Report Number(s): FEMP--2544; CONF-971121--; ON: DE98000594
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

05 NUCLEAR FUELS
BUILDINGS
DECOMMISSIONING
DECONTAMINATION
FEED MATERIALS PRODUCTION CENTER
RADIATION DETECTION
RADIATION PROTECTION
REMEDIAL ACTION